Space planning tools for multi-story construction

Managing work space and storage areas during the enclosure and finish phases in multi-story building construction is crucial to the expeditious completion of these projects. This paper describes the comparison of two space planning models and associated computer tools that help decide and visualize how building floor space is used throughout the duration of construction. This comparison is based on the application of these tools to two actual construction projects. First, a work sequence was developed for two weeks of construction on a small project using the space planning tool, MovePlan, that specifically addresses dynamic layout planning. Second, off-the-shelf CAD and scheduling software were combined to develop space plans for a sequence of twelve activities on a four-story building project. In both cases, the space planning effort helped to identify spatial conflicts before they occurred in the field. Observed advantages and disadvantages of using these tools are presented. Recommendations for further development of space planning tools are included.